HAPPY DAYS… Four-year-old Jayda Francis was enjoying the freedom of being allowed to use the skate park again this week.
Perfect Autumn weather over the past week ensured Parkes Shire residents could enjoy the re-opening of outdoor recreation spaces last Friday to the fullest.
Following the Federal Government’s announcement to relax COVID-19 restrictions and in line with the NSW Government’s public health order, the bright orange safety bunting was removed from playground and exercise equipment, BBQ areas, the dog park, skate park, public seating and picnic tables and made accessible to the public again. It also includes reserves such as Lake Endeavour, Bumberry Dam and the Bogan River Weir.
Parkes Shire Mayor, Cr Ken Keith OAM welcomed the relaxation of restrictions, but stressed the importance of using our public spaces in a way that keeps everyone safe.
“While we are delighted that children can return to our local playgrounds and residents can exercise on the outdoor gym equipment, caution is urged.”
“We must continue to keep up a high standard of hygiene practices and observe the limitation of no more than 10 people for outdoor gatherings.”
The Mayor reminded residents that our public spaces were shared spaces, “so please stay home if you have even the mildest symptoms.”
Australian scooter rider Pascal Berry from Parkes in the air and Chase Francis at the Parkes skate park this week.
Sporting complexes are open for use by groups under 10 people, however dressing rooms and amenities will remain closed.
Parkes Shire Libraries remain closed under the current public health order, but members can access a range of online collections and resources via Council’s website, www.parkes.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/parkes-shire-libraries/
Council’s Administration Centre remains open, however the Planning Counter remains closed to walk up inquiries. The customer service team is still available to support customers over the phone on 6861 2373.
The Parkes Visitor Information Centre and museums, as well as public halls and meeting spaces continue to be closed and will be reassessed in coming weeks in line with the NSW Government directives.
The Mayor also encouraged residents to keep on supporting our community. “There will be many who are suffering the significant economic impacts of COVID-19, exacerbated by three years of severe drought. We need to support our local businesses and keep an eye out for vulnerable people in our community. It’s an opportunity for regional communities to unite and help each other get through this arduous road to recovery”, the Mayor said.
The new NSW regulations allow:
• outdoor gatherings of up to 10 people
• cafes and restaurants can seat 10 patrons at any one time
• up to five visitors to a household at any one time
• weddings up to 10 guests
• indoor funerals up to 20 mourners, outdoor funerals up to 30
• religious gatherings/places of worship up to 10 worshippers
• use of outdoor equipment with caution
• outdoor pools open with restrictions. To find out more about what you can and can’t do under the rules, visit www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/what-you-can-and-cant-do-under-rules .
By Maggi Barnard